Frustrated motorists have slammed the lack of guidance given during the lane closure stage of the Dodwells roundabout improvement works.

Poor signage and a lack of diversion details have left unsuspecting drivers struggling with last minute detours through dark, narrow country lanes.

The failure to offer enough notice has prompted people to air their angst on social media and spur Hinckley and Bosworth borough councillor David Bill to complain to the Highways Agency, which is directing the work.

Bev Swinburn said: “Had nothing from highways. I work shifts and this is causing me a four mile detour each way.”

Lindsay Carlton said: “Didn’t see any signs saying road was closed until I got to the Longshoot junction. No detour signposts. I had to turn left at Longshoot instead of right and go to Higham on the Hill and through Wykin village.”

Valerie Wilkes said: “I spotted the board that was up a few weeks ago down by the roundabout on Normandy Way but there are no warnings at the Triumph roundabout or anywhere else as far as I have noticed. They need to put signs up at key points so people can divert their routes.”

While Louise Fern-Lyons commented: “We live nearby, not had a letter and had been stopped for directions by confused motorists. Signs for the diversion are not clear.”

According to the Highways Agency all local households and businesses should have received a letter detailing the works and the closure schedule.

But people who live in the vicinity say the only notification came in September, outlining the scheme and detailing a public exhibition.

Councillor David Bill

Councillor David Bill said: “The lack of information provided on the site is inexcusable. The first thing that should happen is public awareness and measures to make sure local people and motorists are forwarned of any closures or diversions.

“I will be contacting the Highways Agency to ask what has gone wrong and to request adequate signage be put up so drivers know exactly what is happening.

“I will also be asking them why the diversion route - which I have seen but which doesn’t seem to have been published widely - takes people through Wykin village when strong representations were made for that to be avoided.”

The roadworks are expected to run until March next year and will see the approaches to the roundabout widened and traffic lights installed.

A spokesman for the Highways Agency said: “We always prioritise our customers in terms of ensuring they receive timely information and awareness of planned road improvements. We have informed local people about this scheme with a range of communications including letters, information packs and opportunities to consult with the communities affected by the planned road improvements.

“We apologise if some people felt they did not now what was happening but we would welcome feedback on the A5 Dodwells roundabout junction improvements. People can visit our website to find out information about the scheme.”

On Tuesday, following The Hinckley Times contacting the Highways Agency about local people’s anger, warning and diversion signs had appeared.